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Pilot project is aiming to link up generations

Older volunteers are needed to help raise attainment levels in Perthshire schools as part of a new community project.

Generations Working Together (GWT) has launched a new project to bring older people and younger people together at both Perth Grammar School and the Community School of Auchterarder, in an effort to raise numeracy and literacy levels, and build respect and understanding between the two generations.

The charity are now looking for volunteers over the age of 40 to spare two to six hours per week to go into either of the two schools to take part in a number of projects with the pupils, such as reading, writing, cooking, poetry and games, in what is a first for Scotland.

No experience is required, as those wishing to volunteer will be given full training by GWT and will be supported by the charity’s new development officer Maureen O’Reilly.

Maureen said: “I am excited to be working with out partners Perth Grammar School and The Community School of Auchterarder and promoting intergenerational work throughout Perthshire. Our work will make a huge difference to the local community and all the volunteers who take part, both young and old.

“We are looking to recruit older volunteers in both communities. No experience is required, just a desire to work with young people in their schools in a variety of projects.”

The charity say they hope to get the project up and running by Christmas, adding the benefits will include learning and sharing new skills, making new friends, and having fun together.

Kate Samuels from Generations Working Together, said the two schools were keen to be the first schools in the country to pilot the community-led project.

She added: “This project will link volunteers with people in schools to improve literacy and numeracy, and it is the first pilot of its kind in Scotland.
“If this is successful, we hope to roll it out all over Scotland. Our charity wants to improve intergenerational working so we are keen to do anything that connects older people with young people.

“This should be a very good project once it gets going.”

Anyone wanting to be involved can contact Maureen or by calling 07927550730.

The article was published in Daily Record on 17th Oct 2017 by Rachel Clark

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Generations Working Together

Generations Working Together provides information, delivers support and encourages involvement to benefit all of Scotland's generations, by working, learning, volunteering and living together. Learn more ›

Generations Working Together is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO), charity number SC045851.

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